Wearable high resolution audio visual interface

ABSTRACT

An adjustable visual optical element is provided, which may be supported, for example, by an eyeglass. The optical element is preferably adjustable in each of the X, Y, and Z axes to allow the wearer to optimize projection of the optical element. A view axis of the display is preferably also angularly adjustable with respect to a wearer&#39;s straight ahead normal line of sight. Source electronics may be carried onboard the eyeglasses, or may be connectable to the eyeglasses via either a hardwire, optical guide, or radiofrequency link.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/820,099, filed on Jun. 21, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,025,398 which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/955,249, filed onDec. 12, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,740,353, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 60/870,064, filed Dec. 14, 2006, theentireties of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

A variety of techniques are available for providing visual displays ofgraphical or video images to a wearer. In many applications cathode raytube type displays (CRTs), such as televisions and computer monitorsproduce images for viewing. Such devices suffer from severallimitations. For example, CRTs are bulky and consume substantial amountsof power, making them undesirable for portable or head-mountedapplications.

Matrix addressable displays, such as liquid crystal displays and fieldemission displays, may be less bulky and consume less power. However,typical matrix addressable displays utilize screens that are severalinches across. Such screens have limited use in head-mountedapplications or in applications where the display is intended to occupyonly a small portion of a wearer's field of view. Such displays havebeen reduced in size, at the cost of increasingly difficult processingand limited resolution or brightness. Also, improving resolution of suchdisplays typically requires a significant increase in complexity.

One approach to overcoming many limitations of conventional displays isa scanned beam display, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No.5,467,104 of Furness et al., entitled VIRTUAL RETINAL DISPLAY(hereinafter “Furness”), which is incorporated herein by reference. Asshown diagrammatically in FIG. 1 of Furness, in one embodiment of ascanned beam display 40, a scanning source 42 outputs a scanned beam oflight that is coupled to a viewer's eye 44 by a beam combiner 46. Insome scanned displays, the scanning source 42 includes a scanner, suchas scanning minor or acousto-optic scanner, that scans a modulated lightbeam onto a viewer's retina. In other embodiments, the scanning sourcemay include one or more light emitters that are rotated through anangular sweep.

The scanned light enters the eye 44 through the viewer's pupil 48 and isimaged onto the retina 59 by the cornea. In response to the scannedlight the viewer perceives an image. In another embodiment, the scannedsource 42 scans the modulated light beam onto a screen that the viewerobserves. One example of such a scanner suitable for either type ofdisplay is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,557,444 to Melville et al.,entitled MINIATURE OPTICAL SCANNER FOR A TWO-AXIS SCANNING SYSTEM, whichis incorporated herein by reference.

SUMMARY

An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includesthe realization that despite the development of these and othertechnologies, there remains a need for a mounting system for adjustablysupporting the visual interface optical element or projector withrespect to a wearer's field of view.

In some embodiments, an adjustable optical element and assembly can beprovided to project at least one optical beam onto a retina of a wearer.The retina of the wearer defines an optical centerline. The opticalelement can be attachable to a wearable support structure, such as aneyeglass frame, goggle, or other wearable article. The optical elementcan comprise an adjustable connector, a transmission component, and atransmission surface.

The adjustable connector can have proximal and distal ends. The proximalend can be attachable to the support structure, and the distal endthereof can be adjustable relative to the proximal end. The transmissioncomponent can be configured to receive optical data from at least onesource module. The transmission component can also be configured totransmit the optical data along a data path toward the distal end of theadjustable connector.

The transmission surface can be disposed on the distal end of theadjustable connector along the data path. The transmission surface canbe configured to receive the optical data from the transmissioncomponent and to project at least one optical beam onto the retina ofthe wearer at an angle of incidence relative to the optical centerline.The optical beam can be representative of the optical data. The distalend of the adjustable connector is preferably configured to providedirectional movement of the transmission surface along at least X and Yaxis for altering the angle of incidence of the optical beam in order toensure that the optical beam is properly projected onto the retina.

In accordance with one implementation, the transmission surface can betiltably connected to the distal end of the adjustable connector. Theadjustable connector can define a connector axis and the transmissionsurface can be tiltable about the connector axis. The adjustableconnector can also be further configured to provide directional movementof the transmission surface along a Z axis.

In other implementations, the adjustable connector can be configured asa flexible shaft. The adjustable connector can also comprise a pluralityof interconnected links. Additionally, the adjustable connector can beadjustable between a plurality of rigid positions. Thus, the adjustableconnector can be configured to provide for removable positioning of thetransmission surface within a field of view of the wearer. Further, theadjustable connector can be configured to be removably stowable againstthe wearable support structure.

In accordance with yet other implementations, the transmission surfacecan project the optical beam onto a reflective surface. In such anembodiment, the beam can be reflected from the reflective surface ontothe retina of the wearer.

In yet other implementations, the transmission component can be mountedon the adjustable connector. For example, the transmission component caninclude an optical fiber.

In accordance with another embodiment, the eyeglass can include a frameand first and second earstems. The frame can define first and secondsides, and anterior and posterior portions. The first and secondearstems can each define outer and inner portions. The first and secondearstems can be connectable to the respective ones of the first andsecond sides of the frame. In this regard, first and second opticalelements can be connected to the eyeglass, and each of the first andsecond optical elements can correspond to a respective one of left andright eyes of the wearer.

In such an embodiment, the optical elements can be attachable to theeyeglass to produce a variety of potential assemblies. For example, eachproximate end of each of the first and second optical elements can beconnected to the respective ones of the outer portions of the left andright earstems of the eyeglass. Alternatively, each proximate end ofeach of the first and second optical elements can be connected to theanterior portion of the frame of the eyeglass. Furthermore, eachproximate end of each of the first and second optical elements can beconnected to the posterior portion of the frame of the eyeglass.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, each adjustable connector caninclude at least one orientation indicator for allowing symmetricalpositioning of the first and second adjustable connectors. In yetanother embodiment, each adjustable connector can comprise a pluralityof links, and each link can include the orientation indicator forallowing symmetrical positioning of each respective link of the firstand second adjustable connectors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features of the inventions disclosedherein are described below with reference to the drawings of thepreferred embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended toillustrate, but not to limit the inventions. The drawings contain thefollowing figures:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a projection assembly including aneyeglass, an audio output capability and a visual output capabilityprovided by at least one adjustable optical element, in accordance withan embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1showing first and second adjustable optical elements of the projectionassembly.

FIG. 3 illustrates exemplary electronics used in the optical element forproviding retinal projection of an image onto the retina of a wearer.

FIG. 4A is a side cross-sectional view of the eye illustrating anoptical center line, an angle of incidence of an optical beam, a rangeof allowability, and a retina, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the eye illustrating the optical centerline, the range of allowability, and the angle of incidence, inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of a horizontal cross-section of the eyedepicted in FIG. 4B.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an assembly illustrating the placement ofthe optical element within the wearer's right field of view and withinthe range of allowability.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an eyeglass illustrating the x, y and zcoordinate axes, as well as respective pitch, yaw and roll movementsabout the axes for illustrating exemplary directions in which theoptical element can be adjusted according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7A is a side view of the optical element according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 7B is a top view of the optical element depicted in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a rear perspective view of the optical element illustrated inFIG. 7A and further illustrating projection of the optical beam onto theretina of the eye of the wearer, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a side view of two links used in an adjustable connector ofthe optical element, in accordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 8B is a side view of links of the adjustable connector inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 8C is a side view of links of the adjustable connector inaccordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 8D is a side view of links of the adjustable connector inaccordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a top view of links of the adjustable connector including anorientation indicator, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 9B is a top view of links of the adjustable connector wherein alink is see-through corresponding to an orientation indicator, inaccordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of links of the adjustable connectorillustrating ridges for providing ridged engagement between the links inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a link including a rubber ring forproviding ridged engagement between an adjacent link in accordance withyet another embodiment.

FIG. 10C is a perspective view of a link including a frictional surfacefor providing ridged engagement with an adjacent link in accordance withyet embodiment.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the optical element illustratingtiltability of a transmission surface in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the optical element illustrating thepivotability of the transmission surface in accordance with yet anotherembodiment.

FIG. 11C is a perspective view of the optical element illustrating thetiltability and rotatability of the transmission surface in accordancewith yet another embodiment.

FIG. 12A is a rear view of another embodiment wherein the projectionassembly is provided on a frame of the eyeglass and includes a swingbarwhich supports the first and second adjustable optical elements, whereinthe swingbar is in a retracted position, in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 12B is a rear view of the assembly of FIG. 12A, illustrating theswingbar in a deployed position.

FIG. 12C is a top plan view of the assembly of FIG. 12B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The inventions herein described provide a portable visual displaycapability to a wearable article. Although described below primarily incombination with an eyeglass frame, the adjustable visual opticalelement can be readily incorporated into any of a variety of alternativesupport structures. For example, in addition to any of a variety ofeyeglass configurations including plano or prescription sunglasses orprescription waterwhite eyeglasses, embodiments of the adjustableoptical element may be carried by goggles, such as ski goggles, ormotorcycle motocross goggles, military goggles, industrial safetyglasses or goggles, or other protective eyewear. Alternatively, thevisual optical element may be carried by any of a variety of articlestypically worn on the wearer's head, such as headphones, earphones, ahat, helmet, mask, visor, headband, hair band or the like as will beapparent to those of skill in the art in view of the disclosure herein.The optical alignment of the optical element can be adjustable andlocked at the point of sale or selectively adjustable by the wearer.

The adjustable optical element can be configured to deliver visualinformation to the eye. This may be accomplished by projecting an imageor other data directly on the retina, or by displaying an image on asurface within the wearer's field of view. The optical element may bedriven by any of a wide variety of source electronics, either carried onboard the eyeglasses, or in communication with the eyeglasses from aremote source either via hard wiring or wireless communication.

In general, source electronics may include a computing and/or memorydevice, such as a computer, a server, a network, drive, RAM, ROM orother non-removable or removable memory chip. The source electronics mayalternatively comprise a digital audio visual player, such as an MP3player, an ipod, or a multi-media player such as a portable DVD player,or other visual or audio visual memory media which may be developed. Thesource electronics can also accommodate a high band wireless connectionfor both audio and video, and can include an onboard chipset to controlthe incoming wireless a/v, volume, etc.

The source electronics may alternatively comprise any of a variety ofradiofrequency transmission sources such as a terrestrial based orsatellite based radio, cellular telephone, or customized wireless signalsource. A personal digital assistant (PDA), a blackberry, pager, or anyof a variety of alternative PDA's and email enabled devices, notebookcomputers, or other devices capable of generating a visual (e.g. textand/or image) signal may also be used to drive the optical element.

In alternate embodiments, the source electronics may include any of avariety of devices capable generating a visual text, alpha numeric orstill frame or moving image output. For example, time measuring devicessuch as clocks or timers, or sensors for measuring a body biometric,such as wearer's pulse, temperature, or blood parameters such as bloodoxygen saturation, blood glucose level, or blood pressure may be used.The sensor may be configured to provide an alarm, or a signal indicativeof a time or a sensed biometric to a wearer when certain thresholdlevels are measured, or at periodic intervals. Such thresholds andperiodic intervals may be selected or programmed by the wearer, or maybe preset.

In other embodiments, the sensor of the source electronics may measuredistance or determine positional location. For example, the sourceelectronics may provide a visual image including information derivedfrom a Global Positioning System (GPS) or an altimeter. Such sensors maybe used to determine the distance from an object, including the distancefrom a location, distance traveled from a starting point, or thedistance to a target. Such distance sensor may also be configured toprovide an alarm, or a signal indicative of a distance to a wearer whencertain threshold levels are measured, or during periodic intervals.

The source electronics may provide a visual indicium of any of a varietyof time varying parameters, such as speed, acceleration, or jerk (e.g.the rate of change in acceleration). The source electronics may providea visual signal indicative of an instantaneous or an average timevarying parameter at fixed or at wearer selected intervals. For example,in one embodiment, the source electronics incorporates a GPS receiverand position indicating electronics to provide a display of a map aswell as an indicator of the location of the wearer on the map.

The source electronics may be external to the wearable electronicinterface, in which case a communication link is provided toelectronically couple the source electronics with the optical element.The communication link may be either a direct electrical coupling (forexample hard wiring, or inductive coupling through the body), or awireless protocol.

Wireless source electronics may be infrared enabled or radiofrequencycommunication enabled, such as Bluetooth enabled. For example, in oneembodiment, the source includes a Bluetooth enabled transmitter foreither video or audio and video signals. The source electronics mayalternatively comprise a hand held device, such as a night vision scope,telescope with optical and/or digital zoom, or digital camera for stillphotos or cinematography.

As mentioned above, the optical element can be utilized in combinationwith a wearable article. In this regard, the wearable article mayinclude various types of support structures that can be worn on the heador torso of a wearer. However, it is also contemplated that the opticalelement can be utilized in combination with other structures that arenot worn by the wearer.

For example, the optical element can be mounted on a structure so as toposition the optical element to properly facilitate the use of theoptical element, such as on a headrest of a seat or other similarstructure with respect to which the wearer's head is frequentlyoriented. However, as illustrated in the figures, the optical element isdescribed in the context of a pair of eyeglasses, and more specifically,in the context of a dual lens pair of eyeglasses. Furthermore, accordingto various embodiments, other capabilities can be incorporated into thesupport structure, such as audio and/or tactile feedback capabilities.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a projection assembly is provided that includesa support structure, such as an eyeglass 10 with a frame 12 whichcomprises a first orbital 14 and a second orbital 16 connected by abridge 18. The first orbital can support a first lens 20, and the secondorbital 16 can support a second lens 22. As is understood in theeyeglass arts, the first and second orbitals 14, 16 can surround theentirety of the corresponding lens, or only a portion of the lens,sufficient to support the lens in the wearer's field of view. Framelessconfigurations may also be used, although a frame may be desirable ifwires are needed to extend between the left and right ear stems. As analternative to separate first and second lenses 20, 22, the eyeglass 10can be provided with a single, unitary lens, which extends throughoutthe entire desired range of vision of both the wearer's right and lefteyes.

A first earstem 24, and a second earstem 26 can be connected to theframe 12. Preferably, each earstem is hingably or movably connected tothe frame 12, to enable folding as is understood in the art. However, ahingeless frame can alternatively be used.

In an embodiment wherein the eyeglass 10 is provided with audiocapability, a first earstem 24 can be used to support a first speaker 28by way of a first speaker support 30. Preferably, the first speakersupport 30 is adjustable such as by construction from a flexiblematerial or structure, or an articulating structure as will be discussedin greater detail below. In an embodiment configured for stereo sound ordual mono-sound, a second speaker 32 is preferably supported by thesecond earstem 26, by way of a second speaker support 34.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, one or both of the firstand second earstems 24, 26 can house electronics 36 necessary for theoperation of the audio capability of the eyeglass 10 and/or the visualdisplay capabilities, described below. The electronics 36 can beprovided with any of a variety of controls 38, such as dials, pushbuttons, switches or other such controls depending upon the desiredfunctionality. Further, as described in greater detail below, theelectronics 36 can be in electrical or optical communication with atleast one transmission component 40 for providing the visual displaycapability of the assembly.

In an embodiment configured to direct retinal projection, at least oneoptical element 50 is operative to project at least one optical beamonto a retina of the wearer. As such, the optical element 50 is inoptical and/or electrical communication with the electronics 36 whichprovide the optical element 50 with optical image data that is utilizedto produce the optical beam. The optical element 50 can include thetransmission component 40, as described below.

The optical beam projected by the optical element is representative ofthe optical image data and can be transmitted to the retina of thewearer through a variety of optical and electrical components as knownin the art.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a bottom plan view of theeyeglass 10 illustrated in FIG. 1. According to various embodimentsdiscussed herein, the optical element 50 can be a first optical element50 that is adjustably positionable within the wearer's right eye fieldof view. The first optical element 50 comprises an adjustable connector56, a first transmission component 53, and a first transmission surface54. The first transmission surface 54 can be directed towards the eye ofthe wearer or towards the first lens 20 or other image reflectingsurface. In this regard, the optical beam projected by the opticalelement 50 can be directly projected toward the eye of the wearer or canbe reflected toward the eye of the wearer such as by reflection off ofthe first lens 20. Furthermore, the optical element can be utilized inconjunction with electrochromic or photochromic lenses forindoor/outdoor viewing.

The optical element 50 can be mounted on either a posterior portion 60or an anterior portion 62 of the frame 12, relative to the lens.Alternatively, the optical element can also be mounted along lateralportion 64 or medial portion 66 of either of the first or secondearstems 24, 26. Thus, the frame 12 can be positioned intermediate theeye of the wearer and the optical element, or the optical element can bepositioned intermediate the eye and the frame 12. Such configurationscan be provided in response to whether direct or indirect projection ofthe optical beam is desired, and other design or desired performancecriteria. In an implementation, the first optical element 50 can bepaired with, used in combination with, and/or used separately from asecond optical element 70. Similar to the first optical element 50, thesecond optical element 70 can also include a second adjustable connector72, a second transmission component 74, and a second transmissionsurface 76.

Although various embodiments illustrated herein depict the use of bothfirst and second optical elements 50, 70, it is contemplated thatembodiments can utilize a single optical element, and that the opticalelement can also incorporate various combinations of the featuresdiscussed herein. For purposes of simplifying the present description,it is noted that where the optical element is referred to in singularform, such as the first optical element 50 or the second optical element70, the described features can also be incorporated into the other oneof the first and second optical elements 50, 70. Therefore, reference tothe first optical element 50 alone should not be construed as limiting.Additionally, as mentioned above, it is contemplated that the firstoptical element 50 can be used alone, and therefore, embodiments canincorporate one or two optical elements, as desired.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the first and second optical elements 50, 70can be adjustably supported on the eyeglass 10, by first and secondadjustable connectors 52, 72, respectively. As discussed herein, and asillustrated in the accompanying figures, the first and second adjustableconnectors 52, 72 can be provided in a variety of configurations and canincorporate various useful features, as desired. In a simple embodiment,the first and second adjustable connectors 52, 72 can comprise any of avariety of flexible support elements, articulating arm elements,telescopic elements, or other extension structures. The flexible supportelements can be simple gooseneck supports or other supports as describedfurther below.

The first adjustable connector 52 can have a proximal end 80 and adistal end 82, and the second adjustable connector 72 can have aproximal end 84 and a distal end 86. As illustrated in FIG. 2, theproximal ends 80, 82 of the respective ones of the first and secondadjustable connectors 52, 54 can be attached to a support structure,such as the frame 12. In this regard, the first and second adjustableconnectors 50, 52 can comprise any of a variety of structures that canpermit the distal ends 84, 86 to be adjustable relative to therespective ones of the proximal ends 80, 82.

As mentioned above, certain implementations may utilize a single opticalelement 50 for projecting the optical beam to one of the right or lefteyes of the wearer. Depending on the application, use of a singleoptical element may be sufficient. However, in embodiments where theoptical beam is preferably directed to both of the wearer's eyes, thesecond optical element 70 can also be used. As such, as illustrated inFIG. 2, the first optical element 50 can be adjustably positioned withinthe wearer's right eye field of view while the second optical element 70can be adjustably positioned within the wearer's left eye field of view.

The electronics 36 utilized by the optical element can incorporate avariety of components and can be variously modified by one of skill inthe art using present and prospective knowledge related to retinalprojection and related technologies in accordance with implementations.

For example, as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 3, the electronics36 can include an electronics module 100 that receives image data froman image source 102. The image data can include information utilizableto create an image, such as placement and intensity of color in theimage. The electronics module 100, as is known in the art, can be usedto decipher the image data such that it can be optically portrayed bythe electronics 36. In this regard, the electronics 36 can also includevarious light sources 104, color combining optics 106, a photonicsmodule 108, and modulators 110. These components can be in electroniccommunication with the electronic module 100 and receive the decipheredimaged data therefrom and create the image based on the deciphered imagedata.

The light sources 104 can paint the image in RGB and be modulated andcombined utilizing the color combining optics 106, the photonics module108, and the modulators 110. Finally, a scanner module 112, which can bemounted on the optical element, can project the optical beam onto theretina of the wearer in order to raster scan or “paint” the opticalimage onto the retina. In this regard, the scanner module 112 caninclude various micro electro-mechanical structures such as scanners114, a diffuser 115, and a focusing lens 116. Preferably, the image ispainted in RGB at the rate of at least approximately 30 times per minutefor premium resolution. However, other scanning rates can also be used.

As mentioned above, embodiments can be favorably implemented incombination with various electronics 36; it is also contemplated thatwith the advance of science, new and improved electrical and opticalcomponents can become available and be incorporated into embodiments.Furthermore, the optical beam can be directly or indirectly projectedtoward the eye of the wearer. Therefore, although FIG. 3, as well asother figures, illustrate direct retinal projection, it is contemplatedthat the optical beam can be reflected off of other structuresincorporated into the optical element, such as the first and secondlenses 20, 22 of the eyeglass 10 or other reflective surface.

In accordance with some embodiments, the scanner module 112, asdiscussed above, can be incorporated into the optical element and beconfigured to provide the optical beam which is projected toward the eyeof the wearer. Thus, the first and second transmission surfaces 56, 76of the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can each be configuredto include the scanner module 112. As such, the first and secondtransmission surfaces 56, 76 can project the optical beam toward the eyeof the wearer within an angular range of allowability.

In addition, as mentioned above, the optical element 50 can also beformed to include the transmission component 40. The transmissioncomponent 40 can communicate the image data from the light sources 104to the scanner module 112. In some embodiments, the transmissioncomponent 40 can be mounted on the adjustable connector 52, and caninclude an optical fiber or waveguide. However, it is also contemplatedthat where the scanner module 112 is separate from the first and secondtransmission surfaces 56, 76, the transmission component 40 may not bedisposed on the adjustable connector, as described below.

However, although embodiments can provide that the first and secondtransmission surfaces 56, 76 include the scanner module 112, it is alsocontemplated that the scanner module 112 can be separate from the firstand second transmission surfaces 56, 76. For example, it is contemplatedthat the first and second transmission surfaces 56, 76 can include atleast one optical mirror that optically communicates with the scannermodule 112 to project the optical beam onto the retina.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-C, the eye of the wearer is schematicallyillustrated. As is known in the optical arts, the retina of the eyeserves as an exit pupil for light entering the eye. The eye includes apupil 120 that serves as an exit pupil for the eye of the wearer. Lightentering the pupil of the eye can be focused onto the retina of the eye,where the focused light excites rods and cones of the retinal tissue andconsequently causes detection and transmission of an image to the brain.Such capabilities and the operations of the human eye are basicallyknown in the art. In retinal projection technology however, an image isscanned onto the retina of the wearer by the scanner module 112. Thescanner module 112 can implement a raster scanning of the optical beamin order to “paint” the image onto the retina of the wearer.

According to embodiments, the raster scanning of the optical beam ontothe retina of the wearer can be optimized when the transmission surface56 projects the optical beam at an angle of incidence 122 that fallswithin the range of acceptance 118. The range of acceptance 118 can bedefined as the maximum angular displacement of the optical beam withrespect to an optical center line (OCL) of the retina 126. Since theabsolute orientation of the OCL will vary as the eye moves, embodimentscan normally be designed with the assumption that the OCL is aligned inthe normal, straight ahead viewing position. Thus, retina projection canbe optimized by ensuring that the optical beam is projected onto theretina 126 within the range of acceptance 118. Such can ensure that theoptical beam reaches the retina 128 and is therefore detectible andutilizable in forming a perceivable image.

FIG. 4A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the eye 128illustrating the optical center line 124 intersecting the retina 126.The angle of incidence 122 is depicted as falling within the range ofacceptance 118 in order to allow the optical beam to be properlyprojected onto and detected by the retina 126 of the wearer. While FIG.4A illustrates a vertical cross-sectional side view, FIG. 4B illustratesthat the range of allowability 118 extends also in the horizontaldirection. Thus, according to an implementation, the optical beam ispreferably projected onto the retina 126 within a range of acceptance118, which can be conical in shape. The cone is centered about an axis,such as a normal straight ahead line of sight. However, although therange of acceptance 118 is three-dimensionally depicted as beingconical, the optimal range of acceptance may not be precisely conicaldue to a variety of factors.

FIG. 4C illustrates a horizontal cross-sectional view of the eye 128wherein the range of acceptance 118, the angle of incidence 122, and theoptical center line 124 are each depicted. Retinal projection can beoptimized in embodiments by ensuring that the optical beam projected bythe transmission surface 56 is projected onto the retina of the wearerat an angle of incidence 122 that falls within the range of acceptance118. The angle of incidence 122 can be defined as the angle measuredbetween the optical beam and the optical center line 124. The angle ofincidence 122 is generally no greater than about 40° and in certainembodiments no greater than about 20°.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a top plan view of the eyeglass 10, the firstoptical element 50, and the eye 128 of the wearer is illustrated. Thetransmission surface 56 should be positioned within the right eye fieldview of the wearer such that the optical beam is projected onto theretina 126 of the eye 128 within the range of acceptance 118. Thetransmission surface 56 can be positioned within in the A-P axis outsideof an “eyelash zone” of the eye, which zone can be radially measured asextending approximately as far as the eyelashes of the wearer. Suchpositioning can be implemented where the optical element is disposed onthe posterior portion 62 of the frame 12, as shown in FIGS. 1-2.

The positioning of the transmission surface 56 with respect to the eye128 can affect the apparent size of the image produced by the opticalbeam scanned onto the retina 126. Thus, the first adjustable connector52 can be adjusted as required in order to produce an image of desiredsize. Furthermore, the transmission surface 56 can also be adjusted inorder to properly focus the image onto the retina 126.

While FIG. 5 illustrates that the first optical element 50 can beattached to the anterior portion 62 of the frame 12, the first opticalelement 50 can likewise be attached to the posterior portion 60 of theframe 12. Furthermore, FIG. 5 illustrates that the optical center line124 can be substantially aligned with the wearer's straight ahead lineof sight 130. The straight ahead line of sight can be defined as thatline that extends longitudinally forward from the eye 128 of the wearer.Because the eyes of the wearer can be moved relative to the head of thewearer and therefore allow the wearer to look in different directionswhile the head is maintained stable, the straight ahead line of sight130 shall refer to the longitudinal line of sight that projectsforwardly from the head.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 illustrates that the optical centerline 124 can be substantially aligned with the straight ahead line ofsight 130. However, embodiments are not limited to positioning thetransmission surface 56 within a range of allowability defined by thestraight ahead line of sight 130. Instead, it is also contemplated thatthe transmission surface 56 can be laterally positioned relative to theeye such that when the eye is rotated, for example, to the right, thetransmission surface 56 would then fall within the range of allowability118 in order to allow the optical element to “paint” the image onto theretina of the wearer. Therefore, although embodiments contemplate thatthe optical center line 124 is substantially collinear with the straightahead line of sight 130, it is also contemplated that other uses of theoptical element can be made such as to allow the wearer to selectivelyaccess the retinal projection or in other words, allow the retinaprojection to take place.

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is provided an illustration of X, Y, andZ coordinate axes, in which directions the adjustable connectors 52, 72can be selectively adjusted. In addition, FIG. 6 also illustrates otherdirectional movements of the adjustable connector 52, 72 in the pitch(identified by the Greek letter Ψ), yaw (identified by the Greek letterφ), and roll (identified by the Greek letter ω) directions. Each of thedirections of movement illustrated in FIG. 6 also represents arespective degree of freedom. The term “degree of freedom” can be usedto refer to movement in any of three translational directions or threerotational directions. Translational movement can take place in thedirection of any of the X, Y, or Z axis. Rotational movement can takeplace about any of the X, Y, or Z axis, as respectively illustrated bythe Greek letters Ψ, φ, and ω.

It is contemplated that the various embodiments of the optical elementcan be adjustable in several, if not all, of the directions illustratedin FIG. 6. Although such adjustability could be advantageous, it is nota required feature for various embodiments. Thus, several of theembodiments disclosed herein can advantageously incorporate directionalmovement in at least two or three of the directions shown in FIG. 6.

The first and second adjustable connectors 52, 72 can be variouslyconfigured in order to provide adjustability of the respective ones ofthe first and second transmission surfaces 56, 76. FIGS. 7A-C illustrateone embodiment of the adjustable connector 52, as shown on a like sideof the eyeglass 10. As shown in FIG. 7A, the proximate end 80 of thefirst adjustable connector 52 can be pivotally attached to the frame 12of the eyeglass 10. Although the proximate end 80 is illustrated asbeing attached to a central position of the anterior portion 62 of theframe 12, it is contemplated that the proximal end 80 can be attached ina variety of other configurations. For example, instead of beingvertically pivotally attached, the proximate end 80 can be horizontallypivotally attached, or rigidly attached, and/or removably attached tothe anterior portion 62 of the frame 12.

The first optical element 50 can be configured such that the distal end82 of the adjustable connector 52 is adjustable relative to theproximate end 80 thereof. In this regard, adjustment of the distal end82 likewise provides for the adjustability of the transmission surface56 in order to ensure that the optical beam can be optimally projectedon to the retina of the wearer. The adjustability of the first opticalelement 50 can be accomplished through a variety of structures, such asthose embodiments illustrated herein. For example, FIGS. 7A-B illustratethat the adjustable connector 52 can be comprised of one or more links150. The links 150 can be interconnectable in an end-to-end fashion andcan provide for several degrees of freedom of movement of the adjustableconnector 52. In addition, the adjustable connector 52 can be configuredto provide telescoping capability, be detachable, and be hollow orotherwise provide a slot wherein wiring can be installed if necessary.

The embodiment of the adjustable connector 52 illustrated in FIGS. 7A-Bcan include a plurality of interconnected links 150 that providenumerous degrees of freedom to the adjustable connector 52. As shown inFIG. 7C, with the various degrees of freedom, the adjustable connector52 can enable the optical element 50 to be properly positioned such thatthe transmission surface 56 can project the optical beam on to theretina 126 of the wearer at an angle of incidence 122 that is within therange of allowability 118. Thus, utilizing the various degrees offreedom of the adjustable connector 52, the transmission surface 56 canbe properly positioned to project the optical beam within the range ofacceptability 118.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-B, each of the links 150 can be configured tomate with a respective link 150 at a link joint 152. As shown, the linkjoints 152 can be configured to allow the adjustable connector 52 topitch about the X axis or to yaw about the Y axis.

Further, the optical element 50 can also be configured to include atransmitter joint 154 that is disposed intermediate the distal end 82 ofthe adjustable connector 52 and the transmission surface 56. In someembodiments, the transmission surface 56 can be housed in a transmitter160 that is disposed at the distal end 82 of the adjustable connector52. In some implementations, the transmitter joint 154 can allow thetransmitter 160 to rotate with respect to the distal end 82 of theadjustable connector 52. Therefore, depending upon the orientation andattitude of each link joint 152 and the transmitter joint 154, theoptical element 50 can be adjusted to a desired orientation, as shown inFIG. 7C, in order to properly position the transmission surface 56 toproject the optical beam on to the retina 126 at an angle of incidence122 within the range of acceptability 118.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8C, an embodiment of the link joint 152 shownin FIG. 7A-B is provided in greater detail. FIG. 8A shows the link joint152 in an assembled configuration where links 150′ and 150″ interconnectto provide pivotal motion of the adjustable connector 52 about a linkaxis 162. As shown in FIG. 8A, each link 150′, 150″ can include a distalend 164′, 164″, the distal ends 164′, 164″ can be configured to includemating steps 166′, 166″. In accordance with an implementation, themating steps can each include an axial passage through which a fastener,such as a rivet, bolt, or screw can be inserted to interconnect thelengths 150′, 150″.

Referring now to FIG. 8B, another embodiment of the link joint 152 isillustrated. As shown in FIG. 8B, the lengths 170, 170′ can beconfigured to include additional mating steps 172′, 172″. Although themating steps 172′, 172″ can be similarly configured to include an axialpassage similarly shown in FIG. 8A, it is contemplated that the matingstep 172′ can include opposing axial projections 174 that are sized andconfigured to be received within receiving cavities 176 of the matingsteps 172″. In this regard, according to an embodiment, the link 170′can be rotatably coupled to the link 170″ through the insertion of theprojections 174 into the receiving cavities 176. According to animplementation, the projections 174 can be axially aligned with respectto each other and with respect to the receiving cavities 176 in order toprovide pivotal movement of the link 170′ relative to the link 170″ atthe link joint 152.

According to yet another embodiment, FIG. 8C illustrates a simplifiedlink joint 152 wherein link 180′ and link 180″ can each be configured tobe substantially planar in shape. Further, the links 180′, 180″ can eachbe and configured to include an axial passage 182 through which aconnector 184 can be inserted to pivotally couple length 180′ to link180″ at a link joint 152. Such an embodiment can be advantageous becauseit can allow link 180′ to pivot fully with respect to link 180″, thusnot having its rotational movement restricted as may be the case in theembodiments illustrated in FIGS. 8A-B.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, the link joint 152 can beconfigured to provide ball-and-socket interconnection between adjacentlinks 185′, 185″, as illustrated in FIG. 8D. For example, the link 185′can be formed to include a spherical male end 186 that is receivablewithin a receiving end 188 of the adjacent link 185″. Thisball-and-socket embodiment of the joint link 152 can allow formulti-directional movement of the link 185′ with respect to the adjacentlink 185″. Such a configuration can also be advantageous over otherconfigurations noted in FIGS. 8A-C. Furthermore, it is contemplated thatother ball-and-socket connections can be implemented in order to providethe advantageous qualities described herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-B, it is also contemplated that the opticalelement 50 can include an orientation indicator 190 that allows thewearer to determine the orientation of the optical element 50 withrespect to the support structure. The term “orientation indicator” canbe used to refer to at least one orientation indicator disposed on aportion of the optical element 50, or to refer to several indicatorsused in combination to collectively provide information related to theorientation of the optical element 50 as positioned with respect to thesupport structure.

The orientation indicator can be useful for a variety of purposes. Forexample, in an embodiment of the optical element 50, the adjustableconnector 52 can be configured to be adjustable between a nestedposition and an extended position, as described herein. In the nestedposition, the optical element could be compactly nested in order tofacilitate storage of the optical element. In such an embodiment, theoptical element can be configured to be removably attached to thestructure such that the optical element, once removed, is adjusted toits nested position in order to facilitate storage of the opticalelement.

Alternatively, and as discussed further herein, the optical element 50can be storable or nested on the support structure itself. In such anembodiment, the optical element 50 can be adjusted to its nestedposition when not in use.

In either of the above-mentioned embodiments, the optical element 50 canbe adjusted from its nested position to its extended position and theorientation indicator 190 can be used to facilitate the quick andrepeatable positioning of the optical element to the extended position.For example, the orientation indicator 190 can be inspected by thewearer after the optical element 50 has been adjusted into a properextended position wherein the optical beam is projected onto the retinawithin the range of allowability. Then, the wearer can visually inspectthe orientation indicator 190 so that the wearer can learn precisely howthe adjustable connector 52 should be oriented to facilitate quick andrepeatable adjustment of the optical element 50 to the extended positionat which the optical element 50 is effective.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the orientation indicator 190 can include aplurality of radially extending markings 192 disposed on a distal end194′ of a link 196′. Additionally, a guide marking 198 can be disposedon a distal end 194″ of an adjacent link 196″. The embodimentillustrated in FIG. 9A can correspond to either of the link joints 152illustrated in FIG. 8A or 8B. According to an implementation, theorientation indicator 190 can comprise both the plurality of markings192 and the guide marking 198. In one embodiment, the plurality ofmarkings can include letters, numbers, or other alpha-numeric digits. Asshown in FIG. 9A, the plurality of markings 192 can simply includeradially extending lines, which can be configured to be of varyinglengths. The plurality of markings 192 is preferably configured to beeasily read and perceived by the wearer. In addition, the guide markingcan also comprise any of a variety of alpha-numeric characters, symbolsor other shapes that can be used to point to or otherwise correspond toone of the plurality of markings 192 in a given orientation. Asillustrated in FIG. 9A, the adjacent link 196″ can be rotatably adjustedwith respect to the link 196′, and the guide marking 198 can be used toallow the wearer to visually adjudge the orientation of the adjacentlink 196″ with respect to the link 196′.

Referring now to FIG. 9B, another embodiment of the orientationindicator 190 is shown. In such an embodiment, at least an upper link200′ can be made at least partially of a see-through material, such as atransparent, translucent or otherwise clear plastic. The link joint 152illustrated in FIG. 9B can correspond to the link joint 152 illustratedin FIG. 8C. The upper link 200′ can mate with a lower link 200″ to formthe link joint 152.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9A, the orientationindicator 190 shown in FIG. 9B can also include the plurality ofmarkings 192 and at least one guide mark 198. Because the upper link200′ is see-through, it is contemplated that the plurality of markings192 and/or the guide marking 198 can be selectively disposed on eitherof the upper link 200′ and/or the lower link 200″. As such, whenadjusting the adjustable connector 52 of the optical element 50, thewearer can refer to the orientation indicator 190 in order to adjudgethe relative positioning of the links 200′, 200″. It is contemplatedthat various other embodiments can be implemented utilizing theseteachings.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, it is contemplated that thefirst and second optical elements 50, 70 can each have an orientationindicator 190. In such an embodiment, the adjustable connectors 52, 72can be symmetrically positioned with respect to each other by use of theorientation indicators 190. Such an embodiment can tend to ensure thatthe optical beams projected from the transmission surfaces 56, 76 of therespective ones of the first and second optical elements 50, 70 approachthe eye at similar angular orientations. In this regard, a visual echocan be avoided, or at least the optical beams can be oriented closelyenough such that the brain simply blends the images provided by theoptical beams. Therefore, as discussed further below, the first opticalelement 50 can be adjusted to be in a perfect minor image locationrelative to the second optical element 70, in accordance with anembodiment.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A-C, the optical element 50 can also beconfigured with the adjustable connector 52 being adjustable between aplurality of rigid positions. The rigid positions of the adjustableconnector 52 can refer to a discrete plurality of orientations at whichthe adjustable connector 52 is in a substantially fixed or immobilestate. Therefore, according to implementations, the adjustable connector52 can provide adjustability and lockout for the optical element 50.

FIGS. 10A-C also illustrate that the link joint 152 can be configuredsuch that at least one link 208′ includes an engagement surface 210 thatprovides frictional engagement with a mating surface 212 of the adjacentlink 208″. It is contemplated that the engagement surface 210 caninclude at least one ridge 214 (as illustrated in FIG. 10A), a rubberengagement ring 216 (as illustrated in FIG. 10B), and/or a frictionalcoating 218 (as illustrated in FIG. 10C), or other types or combinationsof geometries or materials that can allow the link 208′ to be rigidlypositioned with respect to the link 208″.

In such an embodiment, rigid positioning can be accomplished through afriction-based engagement or through mating geometries of the engagementsurface 210 and the mating surface 212. Further, the mating surface 212can likewise be configured to include the geometries and/or materialsmentioned with respect to the engagement surface 210. In particular, themating surface 212 can preferably be configured to correspond to theengagement surface 210 in providing a rigid engagement between the links208′, 208″. For example, the contour and shape of the mating surface 212can correspond to that of the engagement surface 210, such as eachincluding a plurality of ridges.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, the optical element 50 can beconfigured with the transmission surface 52 being tiltably connectableto the distal end 882 of the adjustable connector 52. Exemplaryembodiments of such a configuration are illustrated in FIGS. 11A-C.

Referring first to FIG. 11A, the distal end 82 of the adjustableconnector 52 can define a connector axis 220. The connector axis 220 canbe defined as extending longitudinally from the distal end 82 of theadjustable connector 52. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, the transmissionsurface 56 can be configured to rotate about the connector axis 220.This rotational movement can be facilitated through the use of arotation connector 222. The rotation connector can rotatably couple thetransmission surface 256 to the distal end 82 of the adjustableconnector 52. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, the rotation connector 222 canbe positioned at the transmitter joint 154. In such an embodiment, therotation connector can interconnect the transmitter 160 directly to thedistal end 82 of the adjustable connector 52.

According to another implementation, the optical element 50 can also beconfigured to allow the transmission surface 56 to rotate transverselyto the connector axis 220, as illustrated in the embodiment shown inFIG. 11B. The transmission surface 56 can define a transmitter axis 224,as illustrated in FIG. 11B. The distal end 82 of the adjustableconnector 52 can be configured to provide rotatable interconnection withthe transmitter 160 such that the transmitter 160 and the transmission56 can rotate about the transmitter axis 224. In the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 11B, the transmitter axis 224 can be transverselyoriented with respect to the connector axis 220. Thus, the transmissionsurface 56 can be configured to rotate or swivel about the transmitteraxis 224.

In yet another embodiment, the transmission surface 56 can be rotatableabout the transmitter axis 224 and tiltable with respect to theconnector axis 220, as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 11C. Asshown therein, the link join 152 can be configured to provide aball-and-socket connection 226 that can allow the transmission surface56 to rotate about the connector axis 220 and the transmitter axis 224.In addition, the ball-and-socket connection 226 can also allow thetransmission surface 56 to be at least partially translidable in each ofthe X, Y, and Z axial directions.

Various other configurations can be implemented in order to allow thetransmission surface 56 to be tiltable with respect to the connectoraxis 220 and/or rotatable with respect to the transmitter axis 224. Suchconfigurations can be prepared utilizing the teachings herein incombination with skill in the art. For example, the optical element canbe configured such that it is capable of tracking along the surface of asphere. Further, the optical element can also be configured to trackalong an exterior surface of the lens.

As mentioned above with respect to FIG. 5, the optical element(s) can beconnected to the anterior portion 62 of the frame 12 or to the outerportion 64 of the earstem(s). Further, the optical element(s) can alsobe connected to the posterior portion 60 of the frame 12 or to the innerportion 66 of the earstem(s). Further, it is contemplated that theoptical element(s) can be configured to be nestable within a portion ofthe frame 12 or earstems 24, 26 as desired. Thus, the optical element(s)can be moveable between a nested position and an extended position. Sucha design may provide a sleek and unobtrusive nested configuration. Forexample, the connectors can be configured to fold against the earstems,and various types of link joints can be used to allow the adjustableconnector to fold upon itself in the nested position without protrudingsignificantly from the earstem.

According to yet another aspect, the first and second optical elements50, 70 can be used in combination to provide a dual element projectionassembly, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 12A-C. In this regard, it iscontemplated that any of the features and embodiments described hereincan be incorporated into either a single or dual element projectionassembly. As mentioned above, in the dual element project assemblyembodiment, each of the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can beformed to include orientation indicators 190 in order to achievesymmetrical positioning of the first and second elements 50, 70. Thus,the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can be positioned such thatthe optical beams projected from the first and second transmissionsurfaces 56, 76 can be projected on to the retinas 126′, 126″ of thewearer within the respective ranges of allowability 118′, 118″.

According to another implementation, the first and second opticalelements 50, 70 can be configured to be at least partially incorporatedor nested into the frame 12 of the eyeglass 10. In some embodiments, thefirst and second optical elements 50, 70 can be nestable along therespective ones of the first and second orbitals 14, 16 of the frame 12.In this regard, the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can beformed to correspond to the general shape and curvature of the first andsecond orbitals 14, 16. It is contemplated that the first and secondorbitals 14, 16 can be formed to provide a groove or slot into which therespective ones of the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can bepositioned in a nested position. The first and second optical elements50, 70 can be connected to the posterior portion 60 or the anteriorportion 62 of the frame 12. By being connected to the frame 12, it iscontemplated that the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can bedeployed into the wearer's field of view, and despite the normalmovement of the wearer, maintain a stable position.

Further, the projection assembly can be configured such that the firstand second optical elements 50, 70 are coupled together for at least aportion of their adjustable movement. For example, FIG. 12A is a rearview of an eyeglass 10 wherein the first and second optical elements 50,70 are attached to a swingbar 228. The swingbar 228 can be configured tomove from a retracted position 234 when the projection assembly is notin use (illustrated in FIG. 12A), to a deployed position 236(illustrated in FIGS. 12B-C) that orients the first and second opticalelements 50, 70 to be within the range of allowability in the field ofview of the user. Thus, the swingbar 228 can tend to ensure that thefirst and second optical elements 50, 70 move in unison for at least aportion of the adjustable movement (termed “rough adjustment”), therebyimproving the symmetrical positioning of the first and second opticalelements 50, 70 within the wearer's field of view.

As described further below, the use of the swingbar 228 can ensure thatthe “rough adjustment” of the projection assembly relative to thewearer's eyes maintains the symmetry of the first and second opticalelements 50, 70. A “fine adjustment” can subsequently be performed bymanipulation of the first and second optical elements 50, 70.

FIGS. 12A-C show an embodiment of the swingbar 228 wherein the swingbar228 is elongate and includes a first end 230 and a second end 232.Although various operative connections and configurations can beutilized, the swingbar 228 can be an elongate bar that extends along atleast a portion of the first and second orbitals 14, 16 of the frame 12.The swingbar 228 can extend along the entire length of the first andsecond orbitals 14, 16, as shown in FIGS. 12A-C, or only along a portionthereof, as desired.

The swingbar 228 can be formed to correspond to the general shape andcurvature of the first and second orbitals 14, 16. Further, the firstand second orbitals 14, 16 can be formed to provide a groove or slotinto which the swingbar 228 can be positioned in a nested position. Theswingbar 228 can be connected to the posterior portion 60 or theanterior portion 62 of the frame 12.

In some embodiments, the swingbar 228 can be pivotally mounted to theframe 12. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12A-C, the first end230 and the second end 232 of the swingbar 228 can each be pivotallymounted to the posterior portion 60 of the frame 12. However, theswingbar 228 can also be centrally coupled to the frame 12 at a singlepivot point, move by means of translation, or other forms of movement.In one implementation, the swingbar 228 can be configured to extendbetween centerpoints of the first and second orbitals 14, 16, and bepivotally coupled to the frame 12 at a point above the bridge 18.

As mentioned above, the swingbar 228 is preferably moveable from theretracted position 234 to the deployed position 236 so as to ensure thatthe first and second optical elements 50, 70 move symmetrically with theswingbar 228. Preferably, once the swingbar 228 is moved to the deployedposition 236, thus providing the symmetrical “rough adjustment,” thefirst and second optical elements 50, 70 can then be adjusted to providethe “fine adjustment” of the projection assembly.

As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 12B, the deployedposition 236 of the swingbar 228 may only be slightly displaced from theretracted position 234 thereof. For example, the swingbar 228 may beoperative to pivot within a range of approximately ⅛ to ½ inches, andpreferably, approximately ¼ inch. In accordance with an embodiment, theswingbar 228 can be configured to be rigidly maintained in a positionoutside of the wearer's straight ahead line of sight, whether in theretracted position 234 or the deployed position 236. Thus, theprojection assembly preferably does not obscure or block the wearer'sview by placing bulky objects in the straight ahead line of sight, andsuch safety precautions should always be considered when usingembodiments.

The swingbar 228 can be configured with the first and second opticalelements 50, 70 being supported thereon. As illustrated in FIGS. 12A-C,the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can be mounted onto theswingbar 228 with the distal ends 82, 86 of the first and secondadjustable connectors 52, 72 being pivotably connected thereto. Avariety of configurations can be implemented. Preferably, the swingbar228 can be configured such that the first and second optical elements50, 70 can be nested against or in the swingbar 228 when the swingbar228 is in the retracted position 234.

In another embodiment, when the swingbar 228 is in the deployed position234, the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can be adjusted toenter the wearer's straight ahead line of sight and to project theoptical beams onto the retinas, as described above. In the illustratedembodiment of FIG. 12B, when the swingbar 228 is moved to the deployedposition 236, the first and second optical elements 50, 70 can bepivoted downwardly such that the optical beams projected from the firstand second transmission surfaces 56, 76 can be projected onto theretinas 126′, 126″ of the wearer within the respective ranges ofallowability 118′, 118″.

It is also contemplated that an implementation of the orientationindicator 190 can be incorporated into the eyeglass 10 shown in FIGS.12A-C. Further, in order to ensure that the swingbar 228 journeys onlyintermediate the retracted position 234 to the deployed position 236, itis contemplated that a motion limiting element can also be included. Forexample, the motion limiting element can be: a protrusion that limitsthe pivotal motion of the swingbar 228; a rotation limiter that isdisposed at the first and second ends 230, 232; a triangular recessalong the posterior portion 60 of the frame 12 in which the swingbar 228travels; and/or other structures. In this regard, the first end 230 andthe second end 232 can be recessed into the frame or protrude therefrom.Various modifications can be implemented to ensure the accuracy andrepeatability of the positioning of the swingbar 228.

Although these inventions have been disclosed in the context of certainpreferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that the present inventions extend beyond thespecifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodimentsand/or uses of the inventions and obvious modifications and equivalentsthereof. In addition, while several variations of the inventions havebeen shown and described in detail, other modifications, which arewithin the scope of these inventions, will be readily apparent to thoseof skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplatedthat various combination or sub-combinations of the specific featuresand aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within thescope of the inventions. It should be understood that various featuresand aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with orsubstituted for one another in order to form varying modes of thedisclosed inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of at leastsome of the present inventions herein disclosed should not be limited bythe particular disclosed embodiments described above.

1. An optical display assembly comprising: a support defining first and second ends, the first end of the support being attached or attachable to a first portion of a wearable support structure and the second end of the support being attached or attachable to a second portion of the support structure for maintaining the support in a stable position relative to the support structure; and at least one optical element supported by the support, the optical element comprising a connector having a proximal end being attachable to the support, the optical element further comprising a transmission surface being carried by the connector, the transmission surface being configured to provide the optical data in the wearer's field of view.
 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the support is disposed across at least a portion of a posterior region of the support structure.
 3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the support is attached or attachable to a first lateral portion of a wearable support structure and the second end of the support is attached or attachable to a second lateral portion of the support structure.
 4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the wearable support structure is an eyeglass.
 5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the support can be removably positioned within the field of view of the wearer.
 6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the support is removably positioned within the field of view of the wearer by moving the support between a retracted position and a deployed position relative to the support structure for adjusting the support relative to an optical centerline of a retina of the wearer.
 7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the support is pivotally coupled relative to the support structure.
 8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical element is configured to project at least one optical beam toward the retina of the wearer, and wherein a distal end of the connector is configured to provide directional movement of the transmission surface along at least X and Y axes for altering an angle of incidence of the optical beam relative to the optical centerline of the retina.
 9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the connector is further configured to provide directional movement of the transmission surface along a Z axis.
 10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector is configured as a flexible shaft.
 11. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a plurality of interconnected links.
 12. The assembly of claim 11, wherein the connector is adjustable between a plurality of rigid positions.
 13. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector is configured to be removably stowable against the support structure.
 14. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the transmission surface projects an optical beam onto a reflective surface, the beam being reflected from the reflective surface toward the eye of the wearer.
 15. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector is non-removably attached to the support structure.
 16. A wearable display assembly comprising: an eyeglass comprising a frame and a pair of earstems extending posteriorly relative to the frame, the frame comprising first and second portions; a support defining first and second ends being attached or attachable to the respective ones of the first and second portions of the frame, the support being removably positionable in the field of view of the wearer; and at least one adjustable optical element being attachable to the support, the optical element comprising an adjustable connector and a transmission surface being supported at a distal end of the connector, the connector having proximal and distal ends, the proximal end being attachable to the support, the distal end thereof being adjustable relative to the proximal end, the transmission surface being configured to provide an optical display to the wearer.
 17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the first and second ends of the support are attached or attachable to respective first and second lateral portions of the frame.
 18. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the first and second ends of the support are attached to a posterior portion of the frame of the eyeglass.
 19. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the support comprises an elongate body extending between the first and second lateral portions of the frame.
 20. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the first and second ends of the support are pivotally attached to the frame. 